In a show of solidarity for Israeli residents under constant attack from Gaza, amusement parks, museums and other tourist attractions in the central-northern regions of the country are now offering cut rates (and some, even free) for a few moments of fun and relaxation.

Haifa’s museums and theaters are offering free entrance to residents of areas under rocket attack. The Hai Park in Kiryat Motzkin and Balagan kids play area in Kibbutz Yagur are also offering free entry to anyone with an Israeli identification card showing their home address to be in a ‘red alert’ area.

Fourteen of the beaches around the Kinneret are also free of charge to southern residents and hotels in the area are offering 40-70 percent off regular rates as well.

The Holon Children’s Museum, Rosh Hanikra and Kfar Blum Kayaking are some of the paid attractions to cut rates for the benefit of southern residents.

With many children stuck in bomb shelters and safe rooms for extended periods of time, the television cable channels are also pitching in some entertainment: They’ll be opening their broadcasting to residents of the south at no extra cost.

As has become customary when certain parts of the country are under attack, private families are also opening their homes to residents in need of some respite and relaxation.

In related news, the Jewish Agency for Israel is taking thousands of children and teens from rocket-battered southern Israel for rest and recreation activities outside the line of fire throughout this week. The activities were made possible by the support of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and are being undertaken in coordination with the National Emergency Authority, government ministries, and local authorities.

Among the places the youngsters will visit are the Kiftzuba amusement park; the Israel Museum, Jerusalem; and the Tisch Family Zoological Gardens.

“It is both moving and inspiring to feel the mighty fortitude of the people of southern Israel-both immigrants and native Israelis-and the powerful solidarity of world Jewry, which draw upon and strengthen one another. The Jewish Agency is proud to serve as a conduit of positive energy between the Jewish world and the people of Israel’s south and we will continue to do whatever we can to support the local residents during this trying time,” said Chairman of the Executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel Natan Sharansky.

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Viva Sarah Press reports on the creativity, innovation and ingenuity taking place in Israel. Her work has been published by international media outlets including Israel Television, CNN, Reuters, Time Out and The Jerusalem Post.